Get N95 Fit Test Form

A minimum fit factor pass level of at least 100 is necessary for a half-mask respirator (elastomeric or filtering facepiece), and a minimum fit factor pass level of at least 500 is required for a full-facepiece elastomeric respirator.

WHAT IS A RESPIRATOR MEDICAL EVALUATION? ... Also known as a respirator medical clearance, this evaluation helps to protect employees' health at work and ensures workplace compliance with respiratory protection standards established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

N95 respirator refers to an N95 filtering facepiece respirator (FFR) that seals to the face and uses a filter to remove at least 95% of airborne particles from the user's breathing air. ... OSHA requires an initial respirator fit test to identify the right model, style, and size respirator for each worker.

(5) The fit test solution is prepared by adding 337.5 mg of Bitrex to 200 ml of a 5% salt (NaCl) solution in warm water. (6) As before, the test subject shall breathe through his or her slightly open mouth with tongue extended, and be instructed to report if he/she tastes the bitter taste of Bitrex.

The healthcare staff member can wear one N95 FFR each day and store it in a breathable paper bag at the end of each shift with a minimum of five days between each N95 FFR use, rotating the use each day between N95 FFRs. This will provide some time for pathogens on it to die off during storage.

The individual performing the fit test procedure requires no special certification. However, the individual must be able to prepare the test solutions, calibrate the equipment and perform the tests properly, recognize invalid tests, and ensure test equipment is in proper working order.

A surgical N95 (also referred as a medical respirator) is recommended only for use by healthcare personnel (HCP) who need protection from both airborne and fluid hazards (e.g., splashes, sprays). These respirators are not used or needed outside of healthcare settings.

The researchers found that masks that had been decontaminated with ethanol spray did not function effectively after decontamination, and they did not recommend use of that method. By contrast, masks decontaminated with UV and VHP could be used up to three times and function properly.

According to OSHA, a 'fit test' tests the seal between the N95 mask's, or respirator's, facepiece and your face. It typically takes 15-20 minutes to complete and should be performed when this type of mask is first used and then at least annually.